Older adults are relatively vulnerable. They often have physical limitations that may not have affected their daily lives when they were younger. Many people also experience cognitive decline later in life. Those challenges can make it very difficult to live alone. Relying on others for daily support can become costly. It can also lead to abuse.
Elder abuse is a common issue that members of the family or local community may need to address. What are some of the most common warning signs of elder abuse?
1. Unusual financial conduct
Many cases of elder abuse actually involve financial manipulation or extortion. People steal from older adults. They write themselves checks or use their credit cards for personal purchases. Family members who notice signs of financial misconduct may need to gather documentation and take action promptly.
2. Unexplained injuries
The physical abuse of older adults can potentially lead to serious injuries. Minor blows can cause bruises. Shoves can lead to older adults falling and breaking bones. Especially in cases where older adults claim that they do not know how they got hurt or refuse to talk about what happened, there may be reason to worry that a caregiver intentionally harmed that person.
3. Emotional withdrawal or outbursts
Caregiver abuse can be emotional in addition to being physical. Those constantly belittled and verbally abused by family members or caregivers may lash out at others. Other times, they may withdraw from social relationships because they no longer know who they can trust.
Outside parties concerned about emotional, financial or physical elder abuse may need to take steps to address the abuse and protect their loved one. Reviewing concerns with an elder law attorney could potentially help people protect vulnerable older adults experiencing elder abuse.